Wendover Shed Shortlisted for UK Men's Shed Award

Bob Duggan and Dave Walls, two of the founding members of Wendover Shed, are off to the House of Commons tomorrow, shortlisted for a UK Men's Shed Award. Wendover Shed stands proudly shortlisted for the Heritage & Habitat Award, recognising our humble shipping container beginnings, the heritage approach to our expanding footprint and our innovative off-grid solutions.

"Wendover Shed is a remarkable example of what happens when tradition, sustainability and community come together. From the very beginning, the Shed has been shaped — quite literally — by its members, who transformed an old stable block and a repurposed Portakabin into vibrant woodworking and metalworking spaces."

"Their timber-framed outdoor workspace was hand-built using traditional methods, preserving local heritage while creating a space that feels rooted in craft and history."

"What truly sets Wendover apart is their pioneering off-grid setup. Powered by 18 solar panels, multiple storage batteries and a clever energy-efficient system that runs everything from lighting to lathes, the Shed operates independently from the mains."

"A composting toilet, renewable heating, battery-powered water systems and future plans for wind power and a borehole make Wendover one of the most environmentally sustainable Sheds in the UK — with running costs close to zero. Every innovation is driven by members’ ingenuity and their commitment to caring for the planet."

"Heritage sits at the heart of the Shed too. Shedders pass on traditional crafting skills and are currently helping a local school revive the historic Chiltern craft of bodging with a pole lathe and drawbench. Their work for parish councils, community groups and individuals — from bat boxes and owl roosts to hedgehog houses and bug hotels — strengthens local wildlife habitats while showcasing the value of skilled, purposeful making. Members also volunteer their time for restoration work in local churchyards and support charities including local dementia groups through meaningful activity and companionship."

"Wendover Shed is powered entirely by volunteers, spanning seven decades — from 17 to 98 years old. Whether someone comes seeking respite, company, creativity or simply a cup of tea and a chat, the Shed offers a warm, respectful place to belong."

"Some Shedders dive into woodturning or metalwork; others come to sit, talk, mend, or simply be part of something bigger than themselves."

"By blending environmental stewardship, heritage craft, ingenious engineering and a deeply caring community ethos, Wendover Shed has created a place where people feel valued, purposeful and connected — proving that when a Shed is built by its people, for its people, it becomes so much more than a workspace. It becomes a community in the truest sense."